In this episode, we're talking about navigating grief, loss, and the ways love, connection, humor, and community can exist alongside it.

Jessica, Ariele, and Kathleen are joined by comedian and storyteller Lilli Lopez, who shares openly about grieving her father and her beloved dog—and how music, friendship, storytelling, and comedy have helped her carry those relationships forward.

If you're navigating grief yourself, we invite you to take what you need from this conversation. Pause when you need to. Come back when you're ready.

• Why grief isn't linear or bound by a timeline

• Losing a parent and the often-minimized experience of pet loss

• Humor, creativity, and joy alongside grief

• Cultural traditions, remembrance, and honoring our ancestors

• Storytelling, remembrance and maintaining connection after someone dies

• What to say—and do—when someone you love is grieving

Lilli is a stand-up comedian, producer, writer, and longtime improv performer.

Website: YoSoyLilliLopez.com
Social: @ComboLoca

If this episode resonated with you, there are a few meaningful ways you can support Emboldened with Jessica:

• ⭐ Rate and review the show—this helps more people find these conversations
  
  

• 💌If this episode feels meaningful to you, consider sharing it with someone who may need this conversation.
  
  

• ☕ Support the podcast financially by leaving a tip to help cover production costs:
  https://buymeacoffee.com/emboldenedwithjessica
  
  

Your listening, sharing, and support help sustain this space—thank you for being here.

Show Credits

Host: Jessica Jackson

Cohost: Ariele

Cultural Chatterist: Kathleen Onyejekwe

Special Guest: Lilli Lopez

Produced by: Ariele & Jessica

Edited by: Ariele